La escisión total del mesorrecto transanal en el tratamiento del cáncer del recto como nueva técnica en Cuba

Introducción: Las indicaciones de la Microcirugía Transanal Endoscópica han evolucionado desde la cirugía de tumoraciones rectales hasta otras enfermedades pélvicas. La asociación de esta y la escisión total del mesorrecto transanal ofrece una serie de ventajas. Objetivo: Determinar las indicaciones, describir la técnica quirúrgica y mostrar los resultados a largo plazo obtenidos en la realización de la escisión total del mesorrecto transanal en el tratamiento del cáncer del recto medio y bajo. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo y prospectivo de los pacientes con cáncer del recto medio y bajo sometidos a esta técnica quirúrgica en el período comprendido entre febrero de 2017 y febrero de 2022 en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Resultados: Se operaron 13 pacientes, 9 con cáncer del recto bajo y 4 con cáncer del recto medio y un promedio de edad de 56,2 años (rango 28-76). El promedio de tiempo quirúrgico fue de 183 minutos (rango 120-270) y las pérdidas hemáticas estimadas de 68 mililitros. La incidencia de morbilidad mayor fue de 15,4 % y la media de estadía hospitalaria de 5,4 días. La media del período de seguimiento fue de 35 (rango 9-69) meses con una recidiva local de 7,7 % y una supervivencia global a los 5 años de 100 %. Conclusiones: La escisión total del mesorrecto transanal combinado con cirugía laparoscópica es una técnica factible y segura. La introducción de la variante técnica utilizando el instrumental de la Microcirugía Transanal Endoscópica es más ergonómica y disminuye los costos.

Introduction: The indications for transanal endoscopic microsurgery have evolved from surgery of rectal tumors to other pelvic diseases. The association between this and total excision of the transanal mesorectum offers a series of advantages. Objective: To determine the indications, to describe the surgical technique and to show the long-term outcomes obtained in the performance of total excision of the transanal mesorectum for treating cancer of the middle and lower rectum. Methods: A descriptive and prospective observational study was carried out of patients with cancer of the middle and lower rectum who underwent this surgical technique in the period from February 2017 to February 2022 at Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Results: Thirteen patients were operated on, 9 with cancer of the lower rectum and 4 with cancer of the middle rectum, as well as an average age of 56.2 years (range 28-76). The average surgical time was 183 minutes (range 120-270) and estimated blood loss was 68 milliliters. The incidence of highest morbidity was 15.4 % and mean hospital stay was 5.4 days. The median follow-up period was 35 (range 9-69) months, with a local recurrence of 7.7 % and an overall 5-year survival of 100 %. Conclusions: Total excision of the transanal mesorectum combined with laparoscopic surgery is a feasible and safe technique. The introduction of the variant technique using the instruments of endoscopic transanal microsurgery is more ergonomic and reduces costs.

Seroprevalence and genetic characterization of Toxoplasma gondii in domestic pigs intended for human consumption in Cuba.

Domestic pigs are considered as one of the main intermediate hosts in the zoonotic transmission of Toxoplasma gondii in many countries. Serological and molecular studies are warranted to better understand the epidemiology and transmission patterns of this parasite worldwide. To date, seroepidemiological information on T. gondii in domestic pigs in Cuba is very scarce and there are no reports of T. gondii genotypes circulating in this country. Here, we aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of T. gondii and provide genetic characterization of the strains circulating in slaughtered pigs intended for human consumption in Central Cuba. Seroprevalence was determined in 450 serum samples from slaughtered pigs in Villa Clara province using ELISA. Anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG antibodies were detected in 100 animals (22.2%, 95% CI: 18.5-26.2). Conventional PCR of the 529-bp marker of T. gondii was performed in hearts and diaphragm tissues of all ELISA-seropositive pigs. Toxoplasma gondii DNA was detected in four animals. Further genetic characterization of the positive DNA samples was performed by multilocus PCR-RFLP and PCR-sequencing typing tools. Molecular analysis revealed four different genetic profiles that were combinations of type I, II, III and u-1 alleles, suggesting the circulation of non-clonal genotypes of T. gondii in domestic pigs in Cuba. Our results indicate that T. gondii is widely distributed in slaughtered pigs in this country, which might have important implications for public health. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on genetic characterization of T. gondii in Cuba. Although preliminary, the results suggest a high genetic diversity of T. gondii in the study region. Further studies based on parasite isolation are needed to definitively identify the genotypes circulating and characterize the virulence of strains detected in pigs in Cuba, and to assess the risk of zoonotic transmission from pork products in this country.

Imported cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Cuba, 2017: role of human movement.

BACKGROUND: Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease caused by several species from genus Leishmania. An increase in the number of cases related to human movement has been informed in the last years. Due to the increase of suspicious leishmaniasis cases arriving in Cuba during 2017, a general analysis is presented herein. METHODS: Clinical samples were collected from 5 patients suspicious of leishmaniasis, received from January to December 2017 at the Institute of Tropical Medicine Pedro Kourí, Cuba. Skin lesion samples were analyzed using different diagnostic assays: direct smear, histological examination, and molecular analysis for species identification. Epidemiological and demographic data were requested from each case and analyzed. Treatment and follow up of patient was also performed. RESULTS: Five cases were confirmed as Leishmania infection according to microscopic observation and molecular methods results. PCR-18S, PCR-N/RFLP and PCR-F/RFLP identified the following species: L. panamensis (2 cases), L. braziliensis (1 case), L.panamensis/L.guyanensis (1 case), L. mexicana complex (1 case). In treated patients, drugs were well tolerated, cure were documented and no relapse have been currently reported (3 years later). CONCLUSIONS: Clinical characteristics, demographic data, and epidemiological features of infection for each case evidence the potential risk related with travel to endemic areas of leishmaniasis. KEYWORKS: Cutaneous leishmaniasis, Epidemiology, Imported cases.

Cirugía mínimamente invasiva del páncreas / Minimally Invasive Pancreatic Surgery

Introducción: La cirugía mínimamente invasiva del páncreas se enmarca dentro de la actual historia de la cirugía con gran impacto y desarrollo, especialmente en el campo de las pancreatectomías distales. Objetivo: Actualizar los aspectos generales y actuales de la cirugía mínimamente invasiva en las afecciones pancreáticas. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión sistemática a partir de la consulta de artículos científicos relacionados con el tema, indexados en las bases de datos Pubmed, Ebsco y SciELO. La información se analizó y se seleccionaron artículos publicados hasta 2020, relacionados con las indicaciones de cirugía laparoscópica y la robótica en las afecciones pancreáticas, la variabilidad de procederes quirúrgicos laparoscópicos y la morbimortalidad. Desarrollo: La cirugía mínimamente invasiva del páncreas ha alcanzado considerables niveles de complejidad y seguridad (desde la laparoscopia diagnóstica hasta las grandes resecciones pancreáticas). Se identifican las indicaciones de cirugía laparoscópica y la robótica en las afecciones pancreáticas, la variabilidad de procederes quirúrgicos laparoscópicos y se exponen los procederes realizados en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso durante estos últimos 3 años por el grupo dedicado a esta entidad. Conclusiones: La cirugía mínimamente invasiva y la robótica en afecciones pancreáticas son capaces de ofrecer resultados satisfactorios, siempre que sean realizadas por cirujanos con experiencia en cirugía hepato-biliopancreática y cirugía laparoscópica. Garantiza un riesgo de intervención mucho menor y una óptima recuperación en el menor tiempo posible con resultados similares en cuanto a morbimortalidad con la cirugía convencional(AU)

Introduction: Minimally invasive pancreatic surgery is framed within the current history of surgery with great impact and development, especially in the field of distal pancreatectomies. Objective: To update the general and current aspects of minimally invasive surgery in pancreatic disorders. Methods: A systematic review was carried out based on the consultation of scientific articles about the subject, indexed in the Pubmed, Ebsco and SciELO databases. The information was analyzed and articles published up to 2020 were selected, related to the indications for laparoscopic and robotic surgery in pancreatic conditions, the variability of laparoscopic surgical procedures, as well as morbidity and mortality. Development: Minimally invasive pancreatic surgery has reached considerable levels of complexity and safety (from diagnostic laparoscopy to large pancreatic resections). The indications for laparoscopic and robotic surgery in pancreatic disorders, together with the variability of laparoscopic surgical procedures, are identified, and the procedures performed at the National Center for Minimally Access Surgery during the last three years by the group dedicated to this entity are presented. Conclusions: Minimally invasive surgery and robotic surgery in pancreatic affections can offer satisfactory outcomes, as long as they are performed by surgeons with experience in hepatobiliopancreatic surgery and laparoscopic surgery. It guarantees a much lower risk of intervention and optimal recovery in the shortest possible time, with similar outcomes in terms of morbidity and mortality to conventional surgery(AU)

Long-term outcomes of transanal endoscopic microsurgery for clinical complete response after neoadjuvant treatment in T2-3 rectal cancer.

BACKGROUND: Organ sparing by the transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) procedure is a treatment for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer after chemoradiotherapy (CRT) and complete clinical response (cCR). AIMS: To assess the surgical and long-term oncological outcomes of TEM for the treatment in T2-3 rectal cancer after CRT and cCR. METHODS: This study was a retrospective review of a prospective database of patients with rectal cancer who underwent TEM after CRT and cCR from April 2011 to March 2020. RESULTS: 52 patients underwent TEM during a period of 9 years. This group of patients included 27 females and 25 males. The median age was 62 (32-86) years, lesion size was 2.5 (1-4) cm, and lesion distance from the anal verge 7.3 (4-10) cm. Median operative time was 79.5 (25-120) min and hospital stay was 1 day (14 h-4 days). Morbidity rate was 13.5% and reoperation rate due to major complications was 3.8%. Final histological findings confirmed 34 (65.4%) patients with ypT0, 7 (13.5%), 6 (11.5%), and 5 (9.6%) patients with carcinoma ypT1, ypT2, and ypT3, respectively. After a median follow-up period of 86 (5-107) months, 1 (2.4%) patient had local recurrences and 3 (7.3%) distant metastases. The 5-year disease-free survival was 91.7% and 5-year overall survival 89.5%. CONCLUSION: Our experience has shown significant rates of ypT0 and ypT1 associated with excellent long-term results. Performing TEM to treat T2-3N0 rectal cancer after CRT and cCR appears to be an oncologically safe and effective procedure.

Cirugía laparoscópica de la hernia inguinal en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso / Laparoscopic Surgery for Inguinal Hernia at the National Center for Minimal Access Surgery

Introducción: La hernia inguinal, es una de las enfermedades quirúrgicas que más polémicas ha provocado a través de la historia, existen disimiles clasificaciones e incontables técnicas para su reparación. Objetivo: Mostrar los resultados del tratamiento quirúrgico laparoscópico de la hernia inguinal en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo y descriptivo de 737 pacientes intervenidos con el diagnóstico de hernia inguinal por cirugía laparoscópica en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso, en el período comprendido entre enero del 2011 hasta diciembre el 2018. Resultados: Se mostró la efectividad de las técnicas laparoscópicas, con un bajo índice de recidiva, de 1,4 por ciento, bajo índice de conversión, con 0,5 por ciento, la inguinodinia se presentó en 5 pacientes para un 0,5 por ciento y predominó el seroma entre las complicaciones postoperatorias. Conclusiones: La cirugía laparoscópica en la hernia inguinal es una opción segura y eficaz en el tratamiento de la enfermedad(AU)

Introduction: Inguinal hernia has been one of the most controversial surgical diseases throughout history. There are several classifications and countless techniques for inguinal hernia repair. Objective: To show the outcomes of laparoscopic surgical treatment of inguinal hernia at the National Center for Minimal Access Surgery. Methods: A retrospective and descriptive study was carried out of 737 patients with a diagnosis of inguinal hernia operated on by laparoscopic surgery, in the period from January 2011 to December 2018, at the National Center for Minimal Access Surgery. Results: The effectiveness of laparoscopic techniques was shown, with a low recurrence rate of 1.4 percent and a low conversion rate of 0.5 percent, while inguinodynia appeared in five patients, accounting for 0.5 percent, and postoperative seroma was a predominating complication. Conclusions: Laparoscopic surgery is a safe and effective treatment option for in inguinal hernia(AU)

Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and associated risk factors in domestic pigs raised from Cuba.

A cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and associated risk factors in pigs in the largest pork-producing region in Cuba. Serum samples from 420 pigs, including 210 sows and 210 post-weaning pigs, were tested for antibodies against T. gondii using a commercial indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Anti-T. gondii antibodies were detected in 56 animals (13.3%, 95% CI: 10.1-16.6). A generalized estimating equations model revealed that the risk factors associated with higher seropositivity in pigs were altitude (higher in farm's location < 250 m above sea level (masl) versus ≥ 250 masl) and age (higher in sows compared to post-weaning pigs). The results indicated that this protozoan parasite is widely distributed on pig farms in the study area, which is a public health concern since the consumption of raw or undercooked pork meat products containing tissue cysts is considered one of the main routes of T. gondii transmission worldwide. Control measures should be implemented to reduce the risk of exposure to T. gondii in pigs in Cuba.

Concordance of Giardia duodenalis assemblages determined by different PCR methodologies in three observational studies in Cuba.

Giardia duodenalis is one of the most important intestinal parasites globally, especially in children, and in Cuba is the leading cause of chronic paediatric diarrhoea in this population. G. duodenalis is composed of eight genetic groups (or assemblages), two of which (A and B) are apparently zoonotic, occurring in both humans and other animals. However, consensus on the most appropriate genotyping scheme for optimal characterization of G. duodenalis isolates is lacking. In this article we present the results of three descriptive observational studies conducted in Havana, Cuba between 2010 and 2013, with the aim of comparing the results from molecular (PCR) approaches targeting different genes in order to assign with confidence 224 isolates of G. duodenalis to the correct assemblages. In each sub-study, following DNA isolation by the phenol/chloroform/isoamyl alcohol extraction method, PCR targeting the triose phosphate isomerase (tpi) gene was used for molecular characterization, as well as one additional PCR-method targeting another gene or pair of genes. DNA amplification was obtained in 87%, 83%, and 80% in the three sub-studies. Although excellent agreement (kappa index = 1) was recorded between results from some pairs of genes, for other combinations only moderate or substantial agreement was achieved. These results highlight the importance of interpretation of genotyping data, especially when single genetic markers are used. From the results of our studies, PCR targeting a combination of the tpi gene and the intergenic spacer region of rDNA may be a useful approach for the molecular characterization of G. duodenalis isolates.

Improving the sensitivity of an hsp20-based PCR for genus detection of Leishmania parasites in cutaneous clinical samples: a proof of concept.

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease of medical importance widely distributed around the world. Several methods are available for diagnosis but molecular approaches are highly recommended. To improve the sensitivity of an existing hsp20 gene based-PCR protocol to detect Leishmania parasites, primers were redesigned to amplify a shorter fragment using a new PCR variant (PCR-hsp20S). In this study, we aimed at characterizing the performance of the new method on cutaneous clinical samples and compare it with the former PCR-hsp20. The analytical sensitivity of the PCR-hsp20S was evaluated using DNA dilutions (100-0.1 pg) from Leishmania donovani and resulted in the detection of 10 fg of parasitic DNA, the equivalent to 0.05 parasite genome. For the diagnostic evaluation, a panel of 127 human clinical samples was used to calculate the parameters of sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive and negative predictive values of the PCR-hsp20S. Diagnostic sensitivity was 94% (CI, 89.1-99.7%) and the specificity of 100% (CI, 98.6-100%). The same panel was also evaluated with the PCR-hsp20 to calculate the agreement between both molecular assays and to compare their performances. While both hsp20-based PCRs showed a good agreement coefficient (kappa index = 0.6), the performance of the novel variant, PCR-hsp20S, was significantly higher in terms of sensitivity (P = 0.0001) allowing the accurate detection of a higher number of Leishmania-positive clinical samples. We endorse the use of the PCR-hsp20S over the former protocol for the detection of Leishmania parasites from cutaneous clinical samples. In addition, as an improved sensitivity was achieved with the new method merely through the amplification of a shorter gene fragment, this investigation constitutes an experimental proof of this concept.

Genetic Diversity of Trichomonas Vaginalis Clinical Isolates According to Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism Analysis of the 60-kDa Proteinase Gene.

INTRODUCCTION: Trichomonas vaginalis is a highly prevalent parasitic that causes the sexually transmitted disease trichomoniasis with some serious health complications. More understanding about genetic features of the parasite can be helpful in the study of the pathogenesis, epidemiology of the infection and drug susceptibility. For this end, we conducted analysis of a fragment (23 kDa) of the p60 of T. vaginalis gene. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) methods was used. RESULT AND DISCUSSION: RFLP analysis showed the difference between T. vaginalis isolates from symptomatic and asymptomatic patients, suggesting a relation between the genetic identity of the isolates and their clinical manifestations.

Resección anterior del recto ultrabaja laparoscópica con anastomosis coloanal en cáncer del recto bajo / Laparoscopic Ultralow Anterior Rectal Resection with Coloanal Anastomosis in Low Rectum Cancer

RESUMEN Introducción: La resección anterior del recto ultrabaja laparoscópica con anastomosis coloanal evita la realización una colostomía definitiva. Objetivo: Determinar las indicaciones, describir la técnica quirúrgica y mostrar los resultados a largo plazo obtenidos en la realización de este proceder en el tratamiento del cáncer del recto bajo. Método: Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo y prospectivo de 53 pacientes con cáncer del recto bajo en el período comprendido entre octubre 2007 y noviembre 2018 en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso. Todas las resecciones fueron llevadas a cabo por un grupo dedicado a la cirugía colorrectal, en todos los casos se realizó la excisión total del mesorrecto. Resultados: Se operaron mediante esta técnica 53 pacientes, 30 masculinos y 23 femeninos con un promedio de edad de 57 años (rango 23-81) y de ellos 42 (79,2 por ciento) después de terapia neoadyuvante. El promedio de tiempo quirúrgico fue de 195 min (rango 90-360) y las pérdidas hemáticas estimadas, de 72 mL. La incidencia de morbilidad mayor fue de 16,9 por ciento (9/53) y la media de estadía hospitalaria de 6,3 días. La media del periodo de seguimiento fue de 40 meses (rango 1-132) con una recidiva local de 9,4 por ciento (5/53) y una supervivencia global a los 5 años de 80,3 por ciento. Conclusiones: La resección anterior del recto ultrabaja laparoscópica con anastomosis coloanal es una técnica segura con excelentes resultados en cuanto a recidiva local y supervivencia global(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Laparoscopic ultralow anterior rectal resection with coloanal anastomosis prevents the performance of a definitive colostomy. Objective: To determine the indications, describe the surgical technique and show the long-term outcome of performing this procedure in the treatment of cancer of the lower rectum. Method: A descriptive and prospective observational study of 53 patients with low rectal cancer was carried out in the period between October 2007 and November 2018, at the National Center for Minimum Access Surgery. All resections were carried out by a group dedicated to colorectal surgery. In all cases, the total mesorectal excision was performed. Results: 53 patients (30 males and 23 females), with an average age of 57 years (range 23-81) and 42 (79.2 percent) after neoadjuvant therapy were operated using this technique. The average surgical time was 195 min (range 90-360) and the estimated blood loss was 72 mL. The incidence of major morbidity was 16.9 percent (9/53) and the average hospital stay was 6.3 days. The mean follow-up period was 40 months (range 1-132), with a local relapse of 9.4 percent (5/53) and a 5-year overall survival of 80.3 percent. Conclusions: Laparoscopic ultralow anterior resection of the rectum with coloanal anastomosis is a safe technique with excellent outcomes in terms of local relapse and overall survival(AU)

Reintervenciones por fallo de la cirugía antirreflujo / Reinterventions for Failed Antireflux Surgery

RESUMEN Introducción: En la actualidad, la fundoplicatura laparoscópica se considera el tratamiento de elección para la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico con resultados excelentes en más del 90 por ciento de los pacientes. Sin embargo, a pesar de estos resultados, el 30 % de los pacientes presentan persistencia de los síntomas y del 3 por ciento al 10 por ciento requieren reintervención por fallo de la cirugía antirreflujo. Objetivo: Describir las causas del fracaso de la cirugía antirreflujo y las técnicas realizadas en la reintervención. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y longitudinal, de una serie de pacientes a los cuales se les realizo cirugía antirreflujo en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso desde enero de 1994 hasta diciembre de 2016. Las variables analizadas fueron: reintervenciones y sus causas, tratamiento quirúrgico, morbilidad y el índice de conversión. Resultados: De un total de 1 550 pacientes operados, 37 (2,3 por ciento) fueron reintervenidos. Las causas más frecuentes de reintervención fueron la recidiva de los síntomas y la presencia de disfagia. La herniación de la fundoplicatura fue el hallazgo transoperatorio más frecuente. El índice de conversión fue bajo y no hubo fallecidos en las reintervenciones. La morbilidad triplicó la del total de la serie, así como la estadía hospitalaria. Conclusiones: Las reintervenciones por fallo de la cirugía antirreflujo resultan de gran complejidad pues aumentan considerablemente la morbilidad y la estadía hospitalaria. Debe realizarse en centros que acumulen una alta experiencia en estas técnicas(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Nowadays, laparoscopic fundoplication is considered the treatment of choice for gastroesophageal reflux disease, showing excellent results in more than 90 percent of patients. However, despite these results, 30 percent of patients present with persistent symptoms, while 3 percent to 10 percent require reintervention for failed antireflux surgery. Objective: To describe the causes of failed antireflux surgery and the techniques performed in the reintervention. Method: A descriptive, retrospective and longitudinal study was conducted with a series of patients who underwent antireflux surgery at the National Center for Minimally Access Surgery, from January 1994 to December 2016. The variables analyzed were reinterventions and their causes, surgical treatment, morbidity and the conversion rate. Results: From among 1550 patients operated on, 37 (2.3 percent) were reintervened. The most frequent causes of reintervention were the recurrence of symptoms and the occurrence of dysphagia. The fundoplication herniation was the most frequent transoperative finding. The conversion rate was low and there were no deaths in the reinterventions. The morbidity tripled that of the total of the series, as well as hospital stay. Conclusions: Reinterventions for failed antireflux surgery are very complex, since they increase morbidity and hospital stay considerably. It must be performed in centers that accumulate a high experience in these techniques(AU)

Imported leishmaniasis cases in Cuba (2006-2016): what have we learned.

BACKGROUND: Leishmaniasis is a neglected parasitic disease caused by Leishmania spp., which is not endemic in Cuba. However, several factors (such as human activities, climate changes, and tourism) have led to an increase in the number of leishmaniasis cases in all regions, raising diagnosis and surveillance issues. We aim to present the retrospective analysis of 16 human cases suspicious of leishmaniasis, which were received during 2006-2016 for diagnosis at the Department of Parasitology from the Institute of Tropical Medicine Pedro Kourí, Cuba. METHODS: Clinical samples were collected and analyzed via different diagnostic assays, including direct smear, cultivation, histological analysis, and molecular analysis. Epidemiology and background of infection, clinical features, sex and age from each patient was recorded. RESULTS: From the 16 suspicious cases, 5 cases were confirmed for Leishmania infection, based on at least two positive results using different methods: PCR-based diagnosis [18S rRNA (5/5), hsp20 gene (4/5), hsp70 gene (3/5)], histopathology evaluation (2/3), parasite cultivation (2/3), or direct smears (2/3). L. braziliensis and L. mexicana were identified as the involving species in two cases, according to hsp70 PCR-RFLP protocols. Demographic and clinical features, as well as treatment and follow up, are described for every case. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of parasitological and molecular methods allowed proper diagnosis of imported leishmaniasis cases in Cuba. The utility and advantages of molecular diagnosis assays in non-endemic countries like Cuba are discussed.

Manipulador uterino "KD" como nuevo dispositivo para la histerectomía totalmente laparoscópica / Uterine manipulator KD as a new device for the fully laparoscopic hysterectomy

Introducción: Uno de los factores que han influido para lograr una mayor aceptación de la histerectomía totalmente laparoscópica es la introducción de dispositivos que permiten mejorar la movilización del útero durante la cirugía. Objetivo: Evaluar el manipulador uterino KD de producción nacional en la histerectomía totalmente laparoscópica. Método: Estudio prospectivo longitudinal en una serie inicial en humanos. El univero estuvo conformado por las pacientes con patologías uterinas tributarias de tratamiento quirúrgico. La muestra la constituyeron 50 pacientes que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Las variables en estudio fueron: realización de la histerectomía, efectos adversos del sistema rígido en el manipulador diseñado, del sistema neumo oclusor, indicación de la operación, peso del útero, sangramiento intraoperatorio, índice de masa corporal, tiempo quirúrgico, morbilidad intraoperatoria y posoperatoria. El análisis estadístico fue realizado por una especialista en Bioestadísticas, mediante el programa estadístico IBM-SPSS versión 21 para Windows en español. Como medidas de resumen, las frecuencias absolutas, frecuencias relativas tales como el porcentaje, la media y el rango, así como la asociación de Spearman. Resultados: Solo existió un efecto adverso con el manipulador uterino: la perforación de un útero de 55 g. El mioma uterino fue la principal indicación de la histerectomía, el tiempo quirúrgico; así como el sangrado intraoperatorio, estuvieron acordes con otros resultados. Existió una correlación entre peso del útero, sangrado y tiempo quirúrgico. Conclusiones: La histerectomía totalmente laparoscópica con el uso del manipulador uterino diseñado se realizó en la totalidad de las pacientes con resultados aceptables(AU)

Introduction: One of the factors that have influenced for achieving greater acceptance of the fully laparoscopic hysterectomy is the introduction of devices that allow to improve the mobilization of the uterus during surgery. Objective: To assess the uterine manipulator KD of domestic production, in the totally laparoscopic hysterectomy. Method: Longitudinal prospective study in an initial series in humans. The total sample was made up by patients with uterine pathologies and who were candidates for surgical treatment. The sample consisted of 50 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The variables under study were hysterectomy, adverse effects of the rigid system on the designed manipulator, pneumo-occlusion system, indication of the operation, uterine weight, intraoperative bleeding, body mass index, surgical time, intraoperative and postoperative morbidity. The statistical analysis was carried out by a specialist in Biostatistics, using the statistical program IBM-SPSS version 21 for Windows in Spanish. As summary measures, we used absolute frequencies, relative frequencies such as the percentage, the mean and the range, as well as the Spearman association. Results: There was only an adverse effect with the uterine manipulator, which was the perforation of a 55-gr uterus. The uterine myoma was the main indication for hysterectomy; the surgical time, as well as intraoperative bleeding, were consistent with other results. There was a correlation between uterine weight, bleeding and surgical time. Conclusions: The fully laparoscopic hysterectomy with the use of the designed uterine manipulator was performed in all of the patients and with acceptable results(AU)

Manipulador uterino "KD" como nuevo dispositivo para la histerectomía totalmente laparoscópica / Uterine manipulator "KD" as a new device for the fully laparoscopic hysterectomy

Introducción: Uno de los factores que han influido para lograr una mayor aceptación de la histerectomía totalmente laparoscópica es la introducción de dispositivos que permiten mejorar la movilización del útero durante la cirugía. Objetivo: Evaluar el manipulador uterino KD de producción nacional en la histerectomía totalmente laparoscópica. Método: Estudio prospectivo longitudinal en una serie inicial en humanos. El univero estuvo conformado por las pacientes con patologías uterinas tributarias de tratamiento quirúrgico. La muestra la constituyeron 50 pacientes que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Las variables en estudio fueron: realización de la histerectomía, efectos adversos del sistema rígido en el manipulador diseñado, del sistema neumo oclusor, indicación de la operación, peso del útero, sangramiento intraoperatorio, índice de masa corporal, tiempo quirúrgico, morbilidad intraoperatoria y posoperatoria. El análisis estadístico fue realizado por una especialista en Bioestadísticas, mediante el programa estadístico IBM-SPSS versión 21 para Windows en español. Como medidas de resumen, las frecuencias absolutas, frecuencias relativas tales como el porcentaje, la media y el rango, así como la asociación de Spearman. Resultados: Solo existió un efecto adverso con el manipulador uterino: la perforación de un útero de 55 g. El mioma uterino fue la principal indicación de la histerectomía, el tiempo quirúrgico; así como el sangrado intraoperatorio, estuvieron acordes con otros resultados. Existió una correlación entre peso del útero, sangrado y tiempo quirúrgico. Conclusiones: La histerectomía totalmente laparoscópica con el uso del manipulador uterino diseñado se realizó en la totalidad de las pacientes con resultados aceptables(AU)

Introduction: One of the factors that have influenced for achieving greater acceptance of the fully laparoscopic hysterectomy is the introduction of devices that allow to improve the mobilization of the uterus during surgery. Objective: To assess the uterine manipulator KD of domestic production, in the totally laparoscopic hysterectomy. Method: Longitudinal prospective study in an initial series in humans. The total sample was made up by patients with uterine pathologies and who were candidates for surgical treatment. The sample consisted of 50 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The variables under study were hysterectomy, adverse effects of the rigid system on the designed manipulator, pneumo-occlusion system, indication of the operation, uterine weight, intraoperative bleeding, body mass index, surgical time, intraoperative and postoperative morbidity. The statistical analysis was carried out by a specialist in Biostatistics, using the statistical program IBM-SPSS version 21 for Windows in Spanish. As summary measures, we used absolute frequencies, relative frequencies such as the percentage, the mean and the range, as well as the Spearman association. Results: There was only an adverse effect with the uterine manipulator, which was the perforation of a 55-gr uterus. The uterine myoma was the main indication for hysterectomy; the surgical time, as well as intraoperative bleeding, were consistent with other results. There was a correlation between uterine weight, bleeding and surgical time. Conclusions: The fully laparoscopic hysterectomy with the use of the designed uterine manipulator was performed in all of the patients and with acceptable results(AU)

Reintervenciones por fracaso de la miotomía de Heller por acalasia esofágica / Reintervention after failed Heller myotomy for esophageal achalasia

Introducción: la cardiomiotomía de Heller asociada al proceder antirreflujo descrito por Dor constituye el tratamiento de elección en los pacientes con acalasia esofágica; sin embargo, las causas del fracaso del tratamiento aún son controversiales. Objetivo: describir las causas del fracaso de la miotomía de Heller en pacientes operados por acalasia esofágica y la evolución clínica de los pacientes reintervenidos. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y longitudinal de una serie de pacientes reintervenidos por fracaso de la miotomía de Heller en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso desde enero de 2010 hasta diciembre de 2016. Resultados: se les realizó miotomía de Heller a 253 pacientes con diagnóstico de acalasia esofágica. De ellos, 7 (2,7 por ciento) fueron reintervenidos por recurrencia de los síntomas, 4 (1,5 por ciento) fueron operados inicialmente en la institución y el resto fueron remitidos de otras instituciones del país. La edad media fue de 41 ± 15 años (rango 20-59). Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron la disfagia posoperatoria y la pérdida de peso (100 por ciento). El tiempo de recurrencia de los síntomas después de la primera operación fue de 6-12 meses en 4 (57 por ciento), de 12 a 18 meses en 1 (16 por ciento) y de 18 a 24 en 2 (33 por ciento) pacientes. Conclusiones: la miotomía incompleta fue la causa principal de reintervención. La remiotomia laparoscópica con o sin fundoplicatura fue la técnica quirúrgica de elección para estos pacientes los cuales tuvieron una evolución clínica excelente o buena en el posoperatorio(AU)

Introduction: Heller's cardiomyotomy associated with the antireflux procedure described by Dor is the treatment of choice in patients with esophageal achalasia. However, the causes of treatment failure are still controversial. Objective: To describe the causes of failure of Heller's myotomy in patients operated for esophageal achalasia and the clinical progress of patients who required another surgery. Methods: A descriptive, retrospective and longitudinal study was performed in a series of patients who required another surgery due to failed Heller's myotomy at the National Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery from January 2010 to December 2016. Results: Heller's myotomy was performed in 253 patients diagnosed with esophageal achalasia. Among these patients, 7 (2.7 percent) required another surgery due to the relapse of symptoms, 4 (1.5 percent) were initially operated at the institution, and the rest were referred from other institutions in the country. The average age was 41±15 years (range 20-59). The most frequent symptoms were postoperative dysphagia and weight loss (100 percent). The time of symptoms relapse after the first surgery was 6-12 months in 4 patients (57 percent), 12-18 months in 1 (16 percent) and 18-24 months in 2 (33 percent) patients. Conclusions: Incomplete myotomy was the main cause of reintervention, laparoscopic myotomy with or without fundoplication being the surgical technique of choice for these patients, who had an excellent or good postoperative clinical evolution(AU)

Reintervenciones por fracaso de la miotomía de Heller por acalasia esofágica / Reintervention after failed Heller myotomy for esophageal achalasia

Introducción: la cardiomiotomía de Heller asociada al proceder antirreflujo descrito por Dor constituye el tratamiento de elección en los pacientes con acalasia esofágica; sin embargo, las causas del fracaso del tratamiento aún son controversiales. Objetivo: describir las causas del fracaso de la miotomía de Heller en pacientes operados por acalasia esofágica y la evolución clínica de los pacientes reintervenidos. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y longitudinal de una serie de pacientes reintervenidos por fracaso de la miotomía de Heller en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso desde enero de 2010 hasta diciembre de 2016. Resultados: se les realizó miotomía de Heller a 253 pacientes con diagnóstico de acalasia esofágica. De ellos, 7 (2,7 por ciento) fueron reintervenidos por recurrencia de los síntomas, 4 (1,5 por ciento) fueron operados inicialmente en la institución y el resto fueron remitidos de otras instituciones del país. La edad media fue de 41 ± 15 años (rango 20-59). Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron la disfagia posoperatoria y la pérdida de peso (100 por ciento). El tiempo de recurrencia de los síntomas después de la primera operación fue de 6-12 meses en 4 (57 por ciento), de 12 a 18 meses en 1 (16 por ciento) y de 18 a 24 en 2 (33 por ciento) pacientes. Conclusiones: la miotomía incompleta fue la causa principal de reintervención. La remiotomia laparoscópica con o sin fundoplicatura fue la técnica quirúrgica de elección para estos pacientes los cuales tuvieron una evolución clínica excelente o buena en el posoperatorio(AU)

Introduction: Heller's cardiomyotomy associated with the antireflux procedure described by Dor is the treatment of choice in patients with esophageal achalasia. However, the causes of treatment failure are still controversial. Objective: To describe the causes of failure of Heller's myotomy in patients operated for esophageal achalasia and the clinical progress of patients who required another surgery. Methods: A descriptive, retrospective and longitudinal study was performed in a series of patients who required another surgery due to failed Heller's myotomy at the National Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery from January 2010 to December 2016. Results: Heller's myotomy was performed in 253 patients diagnosed with esophageal achalasia. Among these patients, 7 (2.7 percent) required another surgery due to the relapse of symptoms, 4 (1.5 percent) were initially operated at the institution, and the rest were referred from other institutions in the country. The average age was 41±15 years (range 20-59). The most frequent symptoms were postoperative dysphagia and weight loss (100 percent). The time of symptoms relapse after the first surgery was 6-12 months in 4 patients (57 percent), 12-18 months in 1 (16 percent) and 18-24 months in 2 (33 percent) patients. Conclusions: Incomplete myotomy was the main cause of reintervention, laparoscopic myotomy with or without fundoplication being the surgical technique of choice for these patients, who had an excellent or good postoperative clinical evolution(AU)

Direct and Stereospecific [3+2] Synthesis of Pyrrolidines from Simple Unactivated Alkenes.

Pyrrolidines are important heterocyclic compounds with endless applications in organic synthesis, metal catalysis, and organocatalysis. Their potential as ligands for first-row transition-metal catalysts inspired a new method to access complex poly-heterocyclic pyrrolidines in one step from available materials. This fundamental step forward is based on the discovery of an essential organoaluminum promoter that engages unactivated and electron-rich olefins in intermolecular [3+2] cycloadditions.

Detection and identification of Leishmania spp.: application of two hsp70-based PCR-RFLP protocols to clinical samples from the New World.

Leishmaniasis is highly prevalent in New World countries, where several methods are available for detection and identification of Leishmania spp. Two hsp70-based PCR protocols (PCR-N and PCR-F) and their corresponding restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) were applied for detection and identification of Leishmania spp. in clinical samples recruited in Colombia, Guatemala, and Honduras. A total of 93 cases were studied. The samples were classified into positive or suspected of leishmaniasis according to parasitological criteria. Molecular amplification of two different hsp70 gene fragments and further RFLP analysis for identification of Leishmania species was done. The detection in parasitologically positive samples was higher using PCR-N than PCR-F. In the total of samples studied, the main species identified were Leishmania panamensis, Leishmania braziliensis, and Leishmania infantum (chagasi). Although RFLP-N was more efficient for the identification, RFLP-F is necessary for discrimination between L. panamensis and Leishmania guyanesis, of great importance in Colombia. Unexpectedly, one sample from this country revealed an RFLP pattern corresponding to Leishmania naiffi. Both molecular variants are applicable for the study of clinical samples originated in Colombia, Honduras, and Guatemala. Choosing the better tool for each setting depends on the species circulating. More studies are needed to confirm the presence of L. naiffi in Colombian territory.